THAT exchange between an Israeli headquarters in the Sinai and a
fortress commander on the Suez Canal occurred during a thunderous
Egyptian barrage early this year. The sign-off stuck, and radio calls
to and from outposts on the canal now normally end with the words "Only
let there be peace."

In the 100-mile string of underground forts and minefields known as the
Bar-Lev Line, after Israel's chief of staff, peace seems remote.
Running opposite...